Introducing Seera, Saudi Arabia’s pioneering all-female band blending Nirvana and Tool
Seera, Saudi Arabia’s premier all-female band, is carving a unique path in the global music scene. Their journey began with Guitar Hero, inspiring band members Haya and Meesh to create a distinctive sound that melds traditional Middle Eastern music with modern rock elements. Their debut album, Al Mojallad Al Awal (Volume 1), showcases their storytelling prowess in a psychedelic style that has captivated audiences worldwide.
The band name Seera, derived from an Arabic word meaning “story” or “journey,” reflects their commitment to narrating compelling musical tales. Their blend of prog, rock, and Middle Eastern influences has garnered attention on an international scale, solidifying their position as trailblazers in the music arena. Haya and Meesh, delighted by their groundbreaking status as Saudi Arabia’s first public all-female band, express their excitement for the future.
While acknowledging their predecessors, The AccoLade, who opted to remain anonymous, Seera strives to pave the way for more all-female bands from Saudi Arabia. Haya, who initially discovered Meesh through online music covers, emphasizes the band’s goal to bring another Saudi female group on tour with them. Meesh’s musical journey began with Guitar Hero, eventually leading her to bass, driven by influences from bands like Primus and Tool. Haya, on the other hand, found inspiration in flamenco guitarists and Arabic Spanish music before discovering Nirvana, which transformed her musical trajectory.
Reflecting on Riyadh’s burgeoning music scene, Seera members describe a new wave of acceptance for rock music in the city. The evolution of Saudi Arabia’s music industry, spurred by economic diversification efforts, has created exciting prospects for local musicians. Seera’s debut album serves as a testament to this progressive shift, blending modernity with a deep-rooted connection to Arabic culture and heritage. The Arabic lyrics woven into their songs pay homage to the rich tradition of storytelling, encapsulating the essence of Seera’s musical identity.
Inspired by a shared passion for music, Seera seamlessly came together as a band during a jamming session in 2022, solidifying their musical chemistry. The addition of Nora, Meesh’s sister, as a vocalist and keyboardist, and the mysterious drummer known as Thing completed the band’s lineup, forming a cohesive unit that effortlessly meshed different musical influences and styles. This fusion of backgrounds and experiences culminated in Seera’s signature sound, characterized by a captivating blend of genres and storytelling elements.
Seera’s innovative approach to music, blending Western rock elements with traditional Arabic sounds, has garnered widespread acclaim and set them on a path to international success. As they prepare to embark on the global touring circuit, Seera’s message is clear: music knows no boundaries and can powerfully bridge cultural divides. Their journey as an all-female band from Saudi Arabia highlights the transformative potential of music in transcending limitations and uniting diverse audiences through a shared love for storytelling and harmonious melodies.